THE Minister for Health, Mr Noonan, has agreed to cover legal fees and medical costs of just over £250,000 incurred by Positive Action, the group that represents women infected with the hepatitis C virus.
A Department spokeswoman yesterday confirmed that the account had gone to the Taxing Master. Positive Action retained Ivor Fitzpatrick and Co, solicitors, and the group was advised by Mr John Rodgers SC and Mr Michael Cush BL.
The spokeswoman said the Department had agreed to pay reasonable costs" incurred by the group. Some of the fees are for medical expertise, but most are for legal costs incurred during 1995 when the group was negotiation with the Department over the establishment of the tribunal to deal with victims' compensation claims and future health care for those affected by the contamination.
It is understood that Positive Action sought an indemnity against costs at the outset of discussions. At the end of July it was agreed that the matter should be sent to the Taxing Master.
Meanwhile, the Blood Transfusion Services Board (BTSB) will today apologise in the High Court to the family of Mrs Brigid Ellen McCole who died last week. The board has admitted liability and its solicitors reached a settlement of £175,000 with Mrs McCole's legal representatives shortly before her death.
A heated debate is also anticipated tonight in the Dail when the Progressive Democrats table a motion condemning the Minister's handling of the hepatitis C controversy.